Tafeta has unveiled its newest exhibit, one of the most culturally significant works of African art, Babajide Olatunji: Tribal Marks Series II, on view at their Margaret Street Studios just of Regent Street in central London.

A&O Acquisitions were proud to work in partnership with Ayo Adeyinka the founder of Tafeta to arrange the private viewing of the extended collection to our clients on Wednesday 25th February 2015. The private viewing was curated by Erin Gilbert.

Featuring 4 large works on paper, the exhibition represents the second in a series of Olatunji’s exploration of the practice of tribal facial markings in contemporary Nigeria. Executed in charcoal, each hyper ‘realist’ work takes 4 weeks to complete.

CEO of A&O Acquisitions, Mr Gbite Oduneye said “Mr Olatunji’s masterpieces can only truly be appreciated in person to see the high quality of craftsmanship and detail in each piece, the emotion captured is captivating and moving. We were proud to announce a private viewing in partnership with Tafeta gallery for our prestigious clients and network” He added that every quarter they have private viewings of major African art across the globe

Drawing from extensive research into the age-old practice of facial scarifications, interactions and discussions with carriers of these marks, each work in the series is an illusory creation. While the subjects in the series may not exist in reality, the layers of context behind their creation and the technical proficiency in their execution bestows on the works a high degree of implied photo-realism.

Tribal Marks Series II: further strengthens the practice of a young and gifted artist. His mastery of the medium of charcoal to produce such highly accomplished works so early in his career, marks the emergence of an incredible talent. Following on from a sell-out Tribal Series I, we expect the works to sell out before the show is over.